A Framework for the Future

Our Framework is an inclusive and equitable vision for Reflection Riding that will: build a sense of excitement for both the history and future of our 300-acre campus; guide the restoration and conservation of the unique ecology of this place; and engage the next generation of nature lovers.

More than 800 community members informed this plan and gave us ideas, feedback, and advice. Thank you to all who participated! Take a look below to explore the whole plan... and stop by the Welcome Center one day soon to view the Framework exhibit we just installed.

With the closest native plant nursery over 100 miles away, Reflection Riding’s nursery serves an important and unique function for the organization and the region overall. In addition to providing an important source of ongoing revenue supporting the organization’s conservation mission, the nursery also supplies educational programs and native plants for ecological restoration efforts both on- and off-site. Advancing the nursery will engage volunteers, conservationists, and home gardeners in the important practice of enhancing the region’s native ecosystems. This Framework envisions an overall upgrade of both form and function in the nursery. The planned improvements allow the nursery to grow and diversify while enhancing public-facing programs. As a key attractor for visitors to Reflection Riding, the expanded nursery is relocated to be highly visible and directly adjacent to the new Conservation Center. A shaded grove connects the main sales floor to the new building’s covered porch and offers a flexible space for educational programming, group gatherings and receptions. Rather than hiding the nursery, the design relocates less aesthetically appealing production areas to Buffalo Field and upgrades the public-facing areas with new and upgraded greenhouses, hoop houses, grow beds, and other production facilities. Equipment storage and a dedicated shed for the production of custom soil blends complete the plan. Surrounding the central production zone, a series of themed demonstration gardens will showcase nursery species within their native ecological communities while providing habitat for pollinator species. Native gardens will tie the region’s rich botanical history to the present day while continuing to identify and remove non-native and invasive species. A series of interpretive paths guide visitors through the gardens and along multiple restored landscapes, highlighting the restored prairie at Candy Flats and the conversion of both artificial ponds into naturalized seasonal wetlands. 

Help make our vision a reality.